The Mandela Awards 2025 brought together international creative visionaries in Bari, Italy, this week, with Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter Ndileka leading celebrations of the late president’s enduring values.
The prestigious gala at Villa Romanazzi was hosted by the Thembekile Mandela Foundation in partnership with Italian regional partners, honouring contributions to the creative economy and social impact sectors.
Among this year’s honourees was world-renowned photographer Richard Young, who received the Mandela Award for Contribution to Photography in recognition of his five-decade career capturing some of the most defining cultural and humanitarian moments of our time. From intimate portraits of global icons to images that have shaped modern history, Young’s work embodies the spirit of storytelling and empathy that aligns closely with Mandela’s own legacy of humanity and connection.
African arts celebrated
The ceremony formed part of the inaugural Creative Economy Forum, highlighting Africa’s growing influence in global creative industries. Nigerian entrepreneurship leader Adenike Adeyemi addressed cross-border collaboration and youth empowerment within Africa’s creative sectors.
Fashion designer Kamilla Babaeva from Azerbaijan showcased sculptural creations that captivated guests, including former Princess Tessy of Luxembourg, while creative director Bruno Simeone curated the evening’s elegant atmosphere.
“The Mandela Awards remind us that leadership is not defined by power, but by service,” said Taiwo Meghoma, co-president of the Creative Economy Forum. “Bringing the awards to Bari shows what can be achieved when art, culture, and purpose converge.”
The Mandela Awards in Bari mark another important step in expanding the foundation’s global network of creative and socially conscious leaders, connecting heritage and innovation in pursuit of a more equitable world.
